What Licenses Do I Need to Start a Cleaning Business? (State-by-State)

Do you need a license to start a cleaning business?

Yes, you likely need a business license to start your own cleaning business—but it depends on where you live and if you choose to operate as a sole proprietor. 

A business license is a government-issued permit that allows you to legally operate a company, including a cleaning business. They regulate safety, zoning, taxation, and other important requirements. 

Only nine states require a general license for anyone doing business, whether you do house cleaning, window cleaning, commercial cleaning, or any other type of professional cleaning: 

• Alabama
• Alaska
• Delaware
• Hawaii
• Maine
• Maryland
• Nevada
• Tennessee
• Washington

…but, every state has its own rules based on what kind of business you run, and most will require you to at least register before you can operate legally. So even if you’re outside of those states, you need to check your state’s guidelines to make sure you don’t get fined — or worse, put out of business.

Jump to our state-specific contractor license requirements to learn more.

Types business licenses for cleaners

In most cases, a standard business license is all you need to legally run your cleaning business.

Depending on where you operate and the services you offer, you might need other licenses as well. Here are a few common types to look out for:

General business license

Sometimes called a vendor’s license, a business license acts as permission from your city, state, or province to operate your business in that area. Getting a business license allows you to provide cleaning services and sell products in your region.

The place you obtain this license will depend on your state’s requirements, which we’ll help you find below.

Home-based business license or permit

Many cleaning businesses start or stay based out of a home or residential address.

Some local governments require you to follow specific home business regulations and get a special permit, even if your home office is just for administrative tasks.

Sales tax license

In some areas, businesses that sell cleaning products directly to their customers need a separate sales tax license or permit in addition to a general business license. 

If you plan to sell cleaning products directly, you’ll need a sales tax permit (also called a seller’s permit, retail license, or vendor’s license) in any state that charges sales tax. 

The following states do not impose a statewide sales tax: 

• Alaska
• Delaware
• Montana
• New Hampshire
• Oregon

However, some local governments—such as certain cities in Alaska—do levy their own sales taxes, so it’s still important to check your local requirements as well.

Specialized licenses for cleaning business

Certain services may require extra licensing if you want to charge customers to perform them, or even if you only wish to offer them seasonally. Examples include:

• Hazardous waste handling license – This is required if you plan to dispose of biohazards, medical waste, or other regulated materials as part of your cleaning services
• Pesticide applicator license – If you use pest control chemicals during your cleaning services, be sure to know safe handling and application techniques
• Pressure washing license – This license is required in some areas for high-pressure exterior cleaning but may not be necessary if your focus is solely interior services

Check with your state or local agencies to see if any specialized licenses apply to you.

Permits for cleaning businesses

Most cleaning businesses don’t need a special permit to operate, but requirements can vary depending on your location and the type of services you offer. Unlike a state business license, which allows you to operate legally, permits usually regulate how and where you run your business.

For example, if you operate in commercial spaces like restaurants or medical offices, certain areas may require health department permits to ensure compliance with sanitation standards.

Check your local city hall or county clerk’s office to make sure you’re in compliance. Having the right permits not only keeps your business legal but also shows clients you’re professional and trustworthy.

Insurance for cleaning businesses

There are different types of business insurance you can get, with variations based on your level of protection and the assets your business needs. 

Just like having a business license, having insurance is often a legal requirement for operating a cleaning business. It’s also a reassuring selling point when clients are shopping for service providers.

Plus, insurance for cleaning businesses is crucial for protecting your business and your employees. Without it, you risk getting into debt if you accidentally cause damage to a client’s property (or your own).

Most small cleaning businesses need:

• General liability insurance – Protects your business if you cause property damage or someone is injured while you’re working, such as when a cleaning solution spills and damages a client’s hardwood floor.
• Commercial auto insurance – Covers company vehicles if they’re involved in an accident or damaged, like if your work van is rear-ended while transporting cleaning equipment.
• Commercial property insurance – Pays for repairs or replacements if your equipment or business property is damaged, for instance when a fire in your storage facility destroys vacuum cleaners and floor scrubbers.
• Workers’ compensation insurance – Helps cover medical bills and lost wages if an employee is injured on the job, such as when a staff member slips on a wet floor while cleaning an office.

Pro Tip: Need an insurance provider but not sure where to start? Connect with a community of home service pros who get what you’re building in The Home Service Community forum—share advice, ask questions, get answers.

Does my cleaning business need to be bonded?

Your cleaning business isn’t legally required to get bonded. However, many cleaning companies purchase a bond as an extra layer of protection. 

Bonds are a form of insurance coverage that can help you recover losses if an employee steals from a client or causes other financial harm.

Getting bonded not only gives clients peace of mind but it can also help you stand out from competitors by showing prospective customers you take their business seriously. Common options for cleaning businesses include:

• Fidelity bond – Covers losses if an employee commits theft or fraud against a client.
• Surety bond – Guarantees you’ll either fulfill your contractual obligations or pay the client if you don’t.
• Janitorial service bond – Designed specifically for cleaning companies, protecting against employee theft or property damage while on the job.

Check with your insurance provider to see which bond type best fits your services and client expectations.

Tax and employer requirements

In addition to business licenses, cleaning business owners often need to register for tax and employer identification purposes. This ensures you’re operating legally and meeting all reporting obligations. Common steps include:

EIN (Employer Identification Number)

An EIN is issued by the IRS, this number is required if you hire employees, form an LLC or corporation, or want to open a business bank account under your company name.

State tax registration

Some states require service businesses to register for sales tax collection or to pay state-level business taxes. Even if cleaning services aren’t taxable in your area, you may still need to register.

Payroll and workers’ compensation setup

If you hire staff, you’ll need to withhold payroll taxes, report them to the IRS and your state, and carry workers’ compensation insurance where required.

Staying compliant with tax and employment regulations not only avoids penalties but also helps you maintain a professional, trustworthy reputation.

How to get a cleaning business license: state-by-state

Getting your business license in the United States involves a few necessary steps and considerations. Before diving into state-specific requirements, here are the first three steps to take:

1. Decide what type of business you want to operate. For example, you may need to register a “Doing Business As” (DBA) name if you operate under something other than your legal name.
2. Choose your business structure. Whether you set up as a sole proprietorship, partnership, or LLC, your decision could affect your liability, taxation, and how you manage the business.
3. Understand your tax obligations. Depending on your location, this could include property taxes, sales tax, and/or small business tax regulations.

Once you’re ready to start your cleaning business, follow the licensing steps and requirements of your state.

Jump to your state:

Alabama

To start your cleaning business in Alabama, you must apply for a business license with the Secretary of State. Start by filing your business with the county probate office. Follow tax regulations and pay income and business taxes as required.

Alaska

In order to start your cleaning business in Alaska, apply for a business license with the Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development.

Begin by registering your business and getting a state business license. Pay any necessary licensing fees associated with your registration.

Arizona

To start your cleaning business in Arizona, you must register your business with the Arizona Secretary of State (SOS). To set up your business in Arizona, register for a tax ID number and register with the Arizona SOS.

Arkansas

To get your cleaning business license in Arkansas, you must apply through the local county Clerk. Begin by registering your business with the county clerk’s office. Follow tax regulations by registering for and paying sales taxes through the Arkansas Taxpayer Access Point.

California

To get your cleaning business started in California, you must apply through CalGold and the California Franchise Tax Board. Start by registering your business with the county and city. Next, register with the California Franchise Tax Board.

Colorado

To start your cleaning business in Colorado, register through Colorado’s business registry portal, and your county clerk’s office.

Start by registering your business name through the MyBizColorado platform. Next, apply for a business license in the county where you plan to work. Note that you can apply in more than one county.

Connecticut

To start your cleaning business in Connecticut, you must register with the Secretary of State (SOS). You can register your business with the SOS. Make sure you check with your local city or county requirements. 

Delaware

To start your cleaning business in Delaware, you can register for a business license through the Delaware One Stop Business Portal.

To establish your cleaning business in Delaware, start by registering with the Delaware One Stop Business Portal. Next, select an LLC or other appropriate business structure to establish your company’s legal status and operational capabilities.

Florida

To start your cleaning business in Florida, you can register your business with the Florida Department of State Division of Corporations.

After you register your business with the Department’s online portal, Sunbiz, make sure to check with your county requirements before starting work. 

Ready to start? Get a step by step breakdown of starting a cleaning business in Florida.

Georgia

To get your cleaning business started in Georgia, register your business with the Georgia Secretary of State (SOS). To get a business license in Georgia, you need to register your new business with the Georgia SOS. This registration can be done through the Georgia Tax Center website.

Hawaii

To start your cleaning business in Hawaii, register with Hawaii Business Express. Here’s where you can apply for a business license using the Hawaii Business Express website.

Idaho

In order to get your cleaning business started in Idaho, you must apply for a business license with the Idaho Secretary of State. Register your business with the SOS. You may also need to apply for specific region licenses or permits depending on the area you’re working in. This process can be started through the Idaho Business Registration System.

Illinois

To get your cleaning business started in Illinois, register with the Illinois Secretary of State (SOS) and My Tax Illinois. To set up a business in Illinois, register with the SOS, and obtain a tax ID number from My Tax Illinois.

Indiana

To start your cleaning business in Indiana, register with the State Government’s Business Division and the County Recorder’s Office. 

First, register your company, and if applicable, obtain an assumed business name certificate from the County Recorder’s Office. Make sure you also check city or county requirements

Iowa

To get your cleaning business started in Iowa, register with the Iowa Secretary of State (SOS). 

First, register your company with the SOS, acquire an employee identification number (EIN), and review your county or city requirements.

Kansas

To start your cleaning business in Kansas, register with the Kansas Secretary of State and the Kansas Department of Revenue. Register your business with the SOS, then register with the Kansas Department of Revenue, and make sure you check your city or country requirements.

Kentucky

To start your cleaning business in Kentucky, register for a business license through the One Stop Business Portal. 

Begin the process through the One Stop Business Portal and acquire the necessary licenses and permits, excluding those for methamphetamine cleanup businesses. Make sure you review city or county requirements for any additional licenses or permits.

Louisiana

To begin your cleaning business in Louisiana, all you need to do is apply for the license and permits through the Louisiana Secretary of State. You can register for your business license here. 

Maine

To start your cleaning business in Maine, register with the Maine Secretary of State (SOS) and local government offices. You can get a business license from the SOS. Make sure you check the local tax requirements and other local regulations.

Maryland

To start your cleaning business in Maryland, register with Maryland Business Express. You can get a state business license from the Maryland Business Express website. Review the requirements with county and city regulations, too.

Massachusetts

To get your cleaning business license in Massachusetts, register with the Massachusetts Secretary of State (SOS). First, register with the SOS, then sign up with Massachusetts Tax Connect. Check for any local licenses or permits, and consult your county clerk’s office.

Michigan

To start your cleaning business in Michigan, register with the Michigan Secretary of State (SOS). Start by registering with the SOS, then register for a tax ID on Michigan Treasury Online, and check your county clerk’s office for any additional requirements.

Minnesota

To get your cleaning business started in Minnesota, register with the Minnesota Secretary of State (SOS). You can register your business with the SOS and pay the appropriate taxes with the Minnesota Department of Revenue. Make sure you check all local requirements.

Mississippi

To get your cleaning business started in Mississippi,register with the Mississippi Secretary of State (SOS). Register with the SOS and fulfill sales and tax obligations with the Mississippi Department of Revenue.

Missouri

To get your cleaning business started in Missouri, register with the Missouri Secretary of State (SOS). To get started, file your business with the SOS, then register for taxes with the Missouri Department of Revenue, and consult your local county clerk’s office for any additional documentation needed.

Montana

To get your cleaning business started in Montana, register with the Montana Secretary of State (SOS). Start by registering with the SOS. File all necessary taxes with the Montana Department of Revenue, and consult with your county clerk.

Nebraska

To start your cleaning business in Nebraska, register with the Nebraska Secretary of State (SOS). Register your business, acquire a business license, and adhere to tax laws using Nebraska’s one-stop-shop website.

Nevada

To begin your cleaning business in Nevada, register with the Nevada Secretary of State (SOS).You can use the NV SilverFlume web portal to complete the entire registration process online, including filing for licenses, permits, and taxes.

New Hampshire

To start your cleaning business in New Hampshire, register with the New Hampshire Secretary of State (SOS). To get started, use New Hampshire Quick Start to register your business, and complete your business formation and tax filings.

New Jersey

To get your cleaning business license in New Jersey, register with the New Jersey Division of Revenue and  Municipality Websites. 

Start by applying for a business license with the SOS, register with the Department of Revenue and Enterprise Service, and consult with your local county clerk’s office for any other requirements.

New Mexico

To get your cleaning business started in New Mexico, register with the New Mexico Secretary of State (SOS). You can register with the SOS website, then file for sales tax, paycheck withholdings, and estimated income tax with the Taxation & Revenue Department. Make sure you check with the county clerk in your city or county for any other requirements.

New York

To start your cleaning business in New York, register with the New York Department of State (SOS). Use the State of New York’s Business Wizard for all business registration, and tax documents. Make sure you check for local requirements where you’ll be working.

North Carolina

To begin your cleaning business in North Carolina, register with the North Carolina Secretary of State (SOS). 

First, register with the SOS website, then register with the NC Department of Revenue and obtain an Assumed Name at the Register of Deeds Office. Check for business license requirements with your local city or county.

North Dakota

To start your cleaning business in North Dakota, register with the North Dakota Secretary of State (SOS). To start, register with the SOS, then pay tax through the Taxpayer Access Point. Make sure you check with your local city or county for any more requirements.

Ohio

To begin your cleaning business in Ohio, register with the Ohio Secretary of State (SOS).First, register with the SOS website and pay the necessary taxes. You must also get a vendor’s license from the county auditor. Check for business license requirements with your local city or county.

Oklahoma

To get your cleaning business license in Oklahoma, register with the Oklahoma Secretary of State and city or county websites. 

Start by registering with the SOS website, paying taxes through the OK Taxpayer Access Point, and then checking for business license requirements with your city or county.

Oregon

To start your cleaning business in Oregon, register with the Oregon Secretary of State (SOS).Register for a business license from the SOS, and apply for a Business Identification Number. Check for any more requirements with your city or county.

Pennsylvania

To get your cleaning business license in Pennsylvania, register with the Pennsylvania Department of State. Start by registering for your license through the Department of State’s website, and register for taxes through PA 100 Online Tax Registration. Check for additional requirements with your city or county.

Rhode Island

To start your cleaning business in Rhode Island, register with the Rhode Island Secretary of State. Register for a business license with the SOS. You can use Rhode Island Business Assistant and Rhode Island League of Cities and Towns for further guidance. Make sure you check all local requirements, too.

South Carolina

To start your cleaning business in South Carolina, register with the South Carolina Secretary of State (SOS).

You can register your business with the SOS. Make sure you check all local requirements for further steps in order to get your business started.

South Dakota

To get your cleaning business started in South Dakota, register with the South Dakota Secretary of State (SOS). Register with the SOS. Then, file for a sales tax license with the Department of Revenue. Check with your city or county government for any additional licensing requirements.

Tennessee

To get your cleaning business started in Tennessee, register with the Tennessee Secretary of State (SOS). Register with the SOS and then register for sales and use tax with the Department of Revenue. Check with your city or county clerk for any more business licensing requirements.

Texas

To get your cleaning business license in Texas, register with the Texas Secretary of State (SOS).

Start by choosing a business name and registering it with the SOS. Register for sales and use tax with the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts. Check with the city or county government for any additional licensing requirements.

Utah

To get your cleaning business started in Utah, register with the Utah Department of Commerce. You can register with the Utah Department of Commerce and file for a sales tax license with the Utah State Tax Commission. Check with your city or county government for any further licensing requirements.

Vermont

To get your cleaning business started in Vermont, register with the Vermont Secretary of State (SOS). Register with the SOS and register for sales and use tax, and if you have employees, you must register with the Vermont Department of Taxes and the Vermont Department of Labor. Make sure you check with your local town clerk for any more licensing requirements.

Virginia

To get started with your cleaning business in Virginia, register with the Virginia State Corporation Commission (VSCC). 

First, register VSCC and then register for sales and use tax. If you have employees, register for employer withholding taxes and unemployment insurance with the Virginia Department of Taxation and the Virginia Employment Commission. Make sure you check with your city or county government for any more licensing requirements.

Washington

To start your cleaning business in Washington, register with the Washington Secretary of State (SOS).

Register with the SOS and then register for a Unified Business Identifier (UBI). Then, file for a state business license with the Washington State Department of Revenue. Check with your city or county government for any other licensing requirements.

West Virginia

To start your cleaning business in West Virginia, register with the West Virginia Secretary of State (SOS).

Register your business with the SOS and then register for sales and use tax, withholding taxes, and unemployment taxes with the West Virginia State Tax Department and the West Virginia Division of Labor if you have employees. Check with your city or county government for any regional licensing requirements.

Wisconsin

To get your cleaning business started in Wisconsin, register with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI). Register with the DFI and register for a state Employer Identification Number (EIN). If applicable, file for a seller’s permit with the Wisconsin Department of Revenue. Make sure you check with the city or county government for other requirements.

Wyoming

To start your cleaning business in Wyoming, register with the Wyoming Secretary of State (SOS). You can register with the SOS. Then, register for sales and use tax with the Wyoming Department of Revenue. Check with your city or county government for any extra licensing requirements.